NDLEA Seeks Relocation of Abia Command Headquarters to Umuahia as Otti Reaffirms War on Drug Abuse
The Assistant Controller General of Narcotics, Zone 12, Owerri — overseeing Imo, Abia, and Anambra State Commands of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) — Mrs. Florence Ezeonye, has made a formal appeal to Governor Alex Otti to relocate the NDLEA Command headquarters from Aba to Umuahia, the Abia State capital.
According to information obtained by PulseNets, Mrs. Ezeonye emphasized that moving the command headquarters closer to the seat of power would enhance operational efficiency and deepen collaboration with state authorities in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
The zonal chief, who was accompanied by senior officers and the Abia State Commander of NDLEA during a courtesy visit to the Governor, revealed that NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd.), had expressed appreciation for the government’s continued support to the agency.
“The Chairman of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, is deeply grateful to Your Excellency for the residential quarters provided in Umuahia and the operational vehicles that have significantly aided our work,” Mrs. Ezeonye told PulseNets.
She also extended gratitude to the Governor for rehabilitating the NDLEA facility and for his broader infrastructural strides across the state, noting that with such support, the agency had “no excuse to fail” in its mandate.
In his response, Governor Alex Otti, who spoke to PulseNets, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse and trafficking in Abia State. He described drug use as one of the key drivers of violent crime among youths.
“If you notice carefully, many young people who go into crime often return to consume drugs to fuel it,” Governor Otti stated.
The Governor argued that while rehabilitation plays an important role, strict enforcement and deterrent laws remain the most effective means of curbing the menace.
“We must be firm. It’s not just about rehabilitation. Enforcement and strong laws are necessary to break this cycle,” he added.
Governor Otti also analyzed crime dynamics, observing that “about 20% of crimes today are involuntary, while the remaining 80% are deliberate acts driven by desperation and poor choices.”
Also Read: NDLEA Arrests 546 Suspects for Illicit Drug Offenses in Oyo State in 2024, Seizes Over 10,000kg of Drugs”
He, however, assured that his administration would “review NDLEA’s relocation request carefully,” hinting that the proposal to move the Command’s headquarters to Umuahia would receive due consideration.
